Rabbits with Dogs

Really? Can dogs and rabbits get along? Well... that depends... SOME dogs can get along with SOME rabbits. The individual dog and its breed type will weigh heavily. Also, the individual rabbit will play a factor. There are a few rabbits that are just terrified of dogs. Many, however, seem comfortable with the family dog once they have been properly introduced.

Certain dogs, based on their breed, will simply have too much genetic disposition to overcome. Their prey drive will just be too strong. Yet there are still many breeds of dog that will accept the rabbit(s) as part of the family pack.

Of the dogs pictured below, two black ones may look like the same dog. One is a Newfoundland, the other, a labradoodle. I'm afraid black dogs are difficult to photograph, but at least you can 'get the picture.' The brown dog above is guessed to be a mix of Newfoundland and Labrador retriever.

For a description of how I introduce a dog and a rabbit, click here.Check the videos section to see some more dog and bunny interaction

This Newfoundland patiently looks on as the rabbits check him out.

This silly bunny was hoping to find something else to nibble on.

An open paper bag to play in and a dog to tease.

This puppy is cuddling with his buddies. During his teething stage, we had to separate them since he couldn't resist treating the bunnies like siblings.

Relaxed bunny and relaxed dog just lounging about.

Early stages of bunny-dog introductions. See the "click here" button at the top of this page for more detail.

Ah...it's a dog's life. Or is it a rabbit's life?

These x-pens were used to separate puppy and bunnies when they weren't being watched. Under supervision, they were allowed to interact -- quite happily.

Labradoodle watches as the buns get a few treats.

While bunny munches on some lettuce, the dog is behaving well.

This dog and rabbit didn't just "get along." I would be more apt to say they were actually bonded. They both snuggled together frequently and both groomed each other as well. (Ironically, this bun also had a bonded bunny-mate at the same time. That other rabbit tolerated the dog, but would not seek him out.)

A sure sign of a relaxed rabbit is back legs being fully stretched out.

Puppy getting a proper grooming, bunny style.

Another example of a dog being introduced to a rabbit. He is in the submissive position with his head down. This rabbit seemed to 'train' the dog proper etiquette.

After being properly trained, this dog knows how to behave when the bunnies are exploring nearby.